Print. Harlequin Duck, [1871]. 14 x 12 in. framed. Best known for his seminal Birds of America, Audubon's prints are among the world's most recognized images. The Birds of America octavo edition was published in 6 1/2 x 10 in. (approximate size) volumes, depending upon the publisher's binding. The first octavo edition, in seven volumes, sometimes referred to as the "royal octavo folio" or the "royal octavo edition" was published jointly by John James Audubon in New York and J.B. Chevalier in Philadelphia (1840-1844). Seven editions published between 1856 and 1871 followed, with increasing attention to background coloring. The octavos were referred to by Audubon as the "petit edition" and "The Birds in Miniature."In 1858, the U.S. Government ordered 200 sets, which were given to foreign governments as a thank you for important gifts given to America.Total number of color plates in the octavo editions: 500. Printing method: Black and white lithography, watercolored by hand. The process was also called planeography. Lithographer: John T. Bowen, Philadelphia.Unlike the elephant folio editions, Audubon included texts in these smaller editions, similar to the textual content of his earlier Ornithological Biography reference work. By this time, however he had produced more research and had added new species (500 bird plates, rather than only 435 for his "elephant" folio). The octavo editions are not an exact replica of the elephant folio plates. While more than one species is shown on some of the plates in the elephant edition, only one species appears on each plate in the octavo editions. Often, the backgrounds were simplified. As well, new species of birds and new plants appeared in the octavo editions, and the birds are grouped in an orderly scientific manner (the elephant folio edition was unorganized, in comparison).Most subscribers bound their complete 500 plates and text in seven volumes. The first (royal) octavo edition prints do not have the lithographic backgrounds for the color tint on the same plates in the subsequent octavo editions. Except for this background change, all the octavo editions are the same. All the octavo editions are rare and desirable, and color plates still in good condition are hard to find. Many bird lovers seek individual species to mount and frame, created specific scarcities and driving up prices for selected prints. Seller Inventory # 22114.03

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Bibliographic Details

Title: A Harlequin Duck by Audubon

Publication Date: 1871

Binding: No binding

Condition: Fine

Book Type: Print

Store Description

About the Seller Since 1988, I have been the largest buyer of important content American historic documents. Thousands of documents I have handled are in museum collections, including the Emancipation Proclamation and 13th Amendments acquired for the Lincoln Museum of Fort Wayne, Indiana, now on display in the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. I am a member of the Board of Trustees of the Manuscript Society, and a member of the ABAA. References are available upon request. Starting Your Own Collection We have the expertise necessary to acquire individual items, or build a personalized collection for you. We can inspire you by creating a unique link to the historical figures, events or ideas that inspire you. Seth Kaller Inc. can handle or coordinate each aspect of the process such as: Pre-acquisition research, Physical inspection and purchasing, Auction representation, Authentication, Inventory and accounting reports, Conservation, Framing and display, and Collection management. Museum Quality\Private Ownership Most people know that markets exist for Impressionist paintings, fine English antiques, or rare coins. However, the field of historic documents has long been quietly dominated by a select few: J.P. Morgan, Henry Huntington, Malcolm Forbes. This is changing as more collectors discover the satisfaction of a personal, unique connection with history. Achieve Immortality! Become associated with your favorite museum, library, university or historical society. Important properties can be loaned for exhibition, placed on deposit or donated outright, to insure their survival for generations to come. We can handle all the arrangements for you, including working with tax attorneys and accountants, and coordinating insurance, transit, and proper acknowledgment.

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Seth Kaller Inc.
235 Main St. Ste. 510, White Plains, NY, 10601, U.S.A.

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